Water Works Groundbreaking

An historic lakefront building is getting a serious face lift and the project broke ground today in Watkins Glen.

September 14, 2012

Watkins Glen (WENY) - An historic lakefront building is getting a serious face lift and the project broke ground today in Watkins Glen. The old Water Works center on Salt Point Road In Watkins Glen was filled with some art and designs of the transformation it will undergo over the next two years today. The historic property is set to be completely renovated into town houses, an art gallery and an event space for the community. The area has seen this developer before. He helped fixed up two historic buildings is Montour Falls, and now he has his eyes set on the shores of Seneca Lake. His name is Bruce Nelson, and this owner was the talk of the town this afternoon at the ceremony for his development group's newest project. The Nelson Development group is planning to not only restore an historic building. Assemblyman Chris Friend says a waterfront appeal that will bring money. to the region.

“It's fabulous for this area. This area is about tourism and supporting the people that live here and work here and this is going to go hand in hand with that.”

The 3.5 million dollar project will build 2 townhouse-style condos, an art gallery space, boat facilities space for events. The entire side of the building facing the water will be glass and perfect for anyone who loves the views on Seneca Lake.

“The view that's the best, but also the cooperation from the state on down right to the local community here,” says Developer Bruce Nelson.

This isn’t the first project Bruce Nelson has undertaken in Schuyler county. He recently restored The Union School in Montour Falls. That building features apartments and a daycare center, but this project was about a collaboration between state, local and private funds to keep the county competitive.

This is the type of investment and cooperation and collaborative effort we need to have successful projects and this is going to be a true example of that,” says New York Assemblyman Phil Palmesano “I'm sure when we come celebrate the grand opening you're going to see that.”

There are open houses every second Friday each month from 6p.m.to 8 p.m. for anyone interested in moving into the town houses. People are expected to move in starting next year.